In 2007, DAV initiated a pilot for a Burn Pit Registry, which the VA adopted in 2014. Any veteran or service member deployed to Southwest Asia, at any time, on or after August 2, 1990, OR Afghanistan and Djibouti on or after September 11, 2001, are eligible to register.

How long have burn pits been used?

The phrase "burn pit" gained notoriety in the 21st century, especially in U.S. military sites in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, this practice was used well before the War on Terror (2001 to present).

When were burn pits used in Iraq?

Since September 11, 2001, burn pits have been used throughout the operations in Afghanistan and Djibouti, as well as in Iraq after March 20, 2003.